How often do you pay heed to what your body is trying to tell you? When something is not right with our body, we tend to experience signs or symptoms that vary depending on the severity of the underlying condition. Early diagnosis is the key to timely medical intervention that helps to ensure minimal complications and better management of such health issues. Unfortunately, we tend to take such symptoms for granted because we do not realize the fact that these could be an indication of a potentially life-threatening condition like cancer. In this blog, we have elaborated on some of the common symptoms of gallbladder cancer that shouldn’t be overlooked, with the help of experts specialising in gallbladder cancer treatment in Gurugram.
About Gallbladder Cancer
Listed as the 23rd most common malignancy affecting the world population, gallbladder cancer originates from the cells that are found within the gallbladder. Also known as cholecyst, it is a tiny organ that serves the function of storing bile juice produced by the liver. It is marked by the rapid, uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that build-up, resulting in the formation of a tumour. This is believed to be caused by certain genetic abnormalities that can be hereditary or triggered by multiple factors.
The cancer is most commonly seen in older adults, with the average age of diagnosis being 72. Although rare, it is highly aggressive and progresses at a very fast pace. Doctors from the best cancer hospital in India suggest that if the cancer is treated early, it can lead to a better prognosis and promising outcomes. However, this is only possible if we recognize the symptoms and reach out for proper medical care.
Things you need to know about the symptoms of Gallbladder Cancer
Before we discuss any of the symptoms related to Gallbladder Cancer, it is important to understand that these are not the same for every patient. Most patients will not notice any major symptoms in the initial stage and these tend to become evident as the cancer advances to a more critical stage. It is due to this very reason, that by the time many patients are diagnosed, the cancer has already spread to the surrounding areas.
Here are some common symptoms that can be linked to Gallbladder Cancer:
Jaundice - This refers to the yellowing of the skin and eyes due to the excessive build-up of bilirubin. Jaundice is usually seen in patients with advanced gallbladder cancer when the bile ducts have become blocked.
Weight Loss - Unexplained weight loss is common in patients with almost all types of cancer, including gallbladder cancer. In fact, it happens to be one of the initial symptoms. Patients may also experience loss of appetite and tend to feel stuffed even after eating a little amount of food.
Lumps in the Belly - This happens when cancer leads to a blockage in the bile duct, thereby causing it to swell. The swollen gallbladder usually feels like a lump on the right side of the abdomen, when examined physically.
Abdominal pain - As the gallbladder is located in the upper right part of the belly, the pain related to it is mostly experienced in the same area. It is often described as a dragging feeling.
Fever - An unexplained hike in body temperature can also be a sign of gallbladder cancer. However, if you are experiencing chills and shaking too, it is probably due to an infection.
It is pertinent to note that all these may or may not be linked with gallbladder cancer, and the best way to find out is to opt for proper assessment. You can consult the top cancer specialist in Gurugram to know more about the same.
Dr. Sunny Garg, Head of Department and Senior Consultant
Medical Oncology
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